Waikato Region is located in the central part of New Zealand's North Island and is an area developed for agriculture and livestock farming, with New Zealand's largest river, the **Waikato River**, flowing through it. This region is famous for its fertile farmland and green pastures, and holds economic importance as the center of New Zealand's dairy industry. The Waikato Region is also popular as a tourist destination, home to New Zealand's largest cave exploration site, the **Waitomo Caves**, and **Hobbiton**, famous for the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film series.

1. Agriculture and Dairy Farming Center

   Waikato is one of the most fertile agricultural areas in New Zealand, particularly known for its developed dairy farming and livestock industry. Endless green pastures stretch across the region, and it is also well known as the production center for New Zealand milk and dairy products.

2. Waikato River

   The Waikato River, the longest river in New Zealand, flows through this region, and various outdoor and leisure activities take place around the river. The Waikato River provides abundant water resources to the area and is an important natural resource for local residents.

3. Geological Diversity

   The Waikato region has diverse geological features such as limestone caves, hot springs, and volcanic terrain. Notably, the Waitomo Caves' glowworm caves and the geothermal hot springs near Rotorua are famous, offering opportunities for cave exploration and hot spring experiences.

4. Maori Culture

   The Waikato region is densely populated by Maori tribes, allowing for a deep experience of Maori culture and traditions. This area is especially one of the centers of the Maori King Movement, where visitors can experience the life and traditions of the Maori community.

1. Hamilton

   The central city of the Waikato region and the fourth largest city in New Zealand, Hamilton is a modern city formed along the Waikato River. Hamilton is known for its developed education, research, and healthcare industries, and is also recognized as an academic city housing the Waikato campus of the University of Otago.

2. Taupo

   Located around Lake Taupo, this city is renowned for its beautiful natural scenery. Taupo is famous as a resort destination, especially for fishing and water sports on Lake Taupo. It is situated at the southern boundary of the Waikato region.

3. Matamata

   Matamata is a small rural town known worldwide as the filming location of Hobbiton from the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film series. Visitors can tour Hobbiton to see the village featured in the movies.

4. Kihikihi

   One of the small towns in Waikato, Kihikihi is a region deeply rooted in Maori history and culture. Here, visitors can experience Maori traditions and the natural environment up close.

1. Waitomo Caves

   One of the most famous caves in New Zealand, known for its Glowworm Caves. The glowworms living inside the caves emit light, creating a magical scenery, and tourists can enjoy viewing these glowworms by boat. Black water rafting is also a popular activity here.

2. Hobbiton Movie Set

   Located near Matamata, this is a famous spot visited by fans worldwide as the filming location for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies. The village from the films is faithfully recreated, and visitors can tour the movie set. Especially, you can enjoy a beer at the Green Dragon Inn (tavern).

3. Hamilton Gardens

   Located in Hamilton, it is one of the largest gardens in New Zealand, featuring unique themed gardens based on various countries around the world. There are gardens styled as Italian Renaissance, Japanese, Tropical, and more, making it ideal for walks and photography.

4. Lake Taupo

   Located south of Waikato, it is the largest lake in New Zealand and a popular spot for fishing, water sports, boat tours, and other outdoor activities. Lake Taupo is also famous as New Zealand's top trout fishing destination, and there are hot springs and waterfalls around the lake.

5. Waikato River

   The longest river in New Zealand and one of the representative natural resources of the Waikato region. The Waikato River offers various activities such as fishing, boat tours, and hiking, and the walking trails along the riverbank are great places to enjoy nature.

6. Orakei Korako

   Also known as the "Hidden Valley," this geothermal area is located north of Taupo. It features volcanic hot springs, geothermal waterfalls, mud pools, and naturally formed terraces with colorful geothermal landscapes. Visitors can experience the unique geological environment characteristic of geothermal zones.